FREE STANDARD DELIVERY ON ALL ORDERS | FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY ON ALL ORDERS OVER £50*

RED EYES
SYMPTOM GUIDE

Red eyes can be a general term to describe when eyes appear bloodshot or the white of your eyes appear red or pink in colour. Red eyes could occur due to irritation infection, allergies or injury.

Common causes of red eyes 

Red eyes can be caused by a number of different conditions, such as infections like conjunctivitis, inflammation from blepharitis or uveitis, and also dry eyes. These eye conditions can result in red eyes alongside other symptoms, such as blurry vision, sensitivity to light or watery eyes.

ALLERGIES

It’s likely common to experience red eyes when there are allergies present. For example, pollen and dust may cause red eyes due to inflammation or irritation. Eye allergy triggers can include outdoor allergens like pollen, indoor allergens such as dust and pet dander or other irritants such as perfume.

LIFESTYLE OR DAY-TO-DAY FACTORS

In some cases, lifestyle choices or day-to-day living can increase your chance of experiencing red eyes. This can include instances such as looking at a screen for too long or irritation from over-wearing of contact lenses. Dehydration and excessive alcohol consumption may also contribute to red eyes, as could improper make-up removal.

Other occurrences, such as lack of sleep, rubbing eyes or objects in the eye such as an eyelash, can also result in red eyes.

RELATED EYE CONDITIONS

Red eyes can also be related to some specific eye conditions, which you can find out more about below.

DRY EYE
BLEPHARITIS
MGD

It’s important to remember that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are other eye conditions that may present with red eyes. Styes are a common type of eye infection that can affect the eyelids, resulting in swelling, watering eyes and an itchy feeling, which could lead to red eyes. If you are experiencing eye symptoms like red eyes or if you think you may have an eye condition, speak to an eye care professional, particularly if you have just one red eye.

What to do if you have red eyes

If you have noticed that you have red eyes, there are some next steps you can take.

Eye hygiene

Looking after your eyes is key to reducing red eyes. Consider routine eyelid cleansing and using lubricating, hydrating eye drops to ensure the eyes are cared for. This can soothe eyes and provide relief for tired, gritty or dry eyes that may lead to red eyes.

Lifestyle factors

Proper hygiene, such as washing your hands, rest and hydration, can help to reduce red eyes, as well as taking regular breaks from screens. You may also want to consider avoiding overexposure to irritants and removing make-up effectively to help prevent any irritation or potential infection.

See an eye care professional to find the cause

It’s important to see an eye care professional to check your eye health, especially if you are experiencing a change in your eye’s appearance or vision. You can seek advice from a optician, pharmacist, or GP.

Explore other eye symptoms

Find out more about other eye symptoms below, or visit the Eye Symptom Checker to find out more information.

WATERY EYESSTICKY EYESBLURRED VISION

Expert eye Care Guaranteed

Théa is a company dedicated to eye care and to supporting the education of professionals involved in all aspects of eye health.

We are uncompromising in our approach to developing the best eye care solutions that won’t damage or irritate eyes.

Expert Eye Care badge

Find your nearest eye care professional

SEARCH NOW